Choice 评论
The power of the critical mind to incite speculation into insight is again demonstrated in this new volume of the ``Interpretations'' series. Conrad's views gleaned from Nostromo as well as Nostromo's revelations via its prose rhythms and literary techniques are exhibited in a dazzling display of analyses and stylistic performance. Some of the essays are brilliant, others merely dense; some are written in impeccable lay prose, others in an errant and confining jargon. All show an awareness of Nostromo as a complement of historicism and myth. Harold Bloom has selected a wide range of context and style, although several special thematic concerns dominate the book. Penn Warren's essay is a richly intense journey into Conrad's never ending war between desire for communion and identity with exile. Aaron Fogel's perceptive play with the counterpoint notes of contraction and expansion throws a new light onto Conrad's shadowy views on the imperialism of his day and Conrad's own battle with the need for public action/choice and his equally pervasive impulse for private retreat and reflection; Fogel's essay illuminates scholarly logistics within a set of defined parameters. Other discursive pieces of high quality include essays by Stephen K. Land and Martin Price. In sum, a collection of value and of a stimulating order. Appropriate for graduate students, upper-division undergraduates, and general readers.-M. Tucker, Long Island University/C.W. Post Campus